Jozy Altidore bids farewell to Toronto FC

After seven seasons, star striker Jozy Altidore has bid farewell to Toronto via a social media post.

While Toronto FC has not said much about Altidore's absence from training camp, his departure was expected. Coach Bob Bradley, who doubles as the MLS team's sporting director, said earlier this week an announcement on the 32-year-old forward's future was coming "shortly."

In typical Altidore fashion, he made the announcement himself.

A source, not authorized to speak publicly on the matter because talks have been ongoing behind the scenes, said TFC and Altidore's representatives have been in prolonged discussions about a contract buyout. The New England Revolution reportedly is waiting in the wings to sign Altidore, one of TFC's three designated players.

Friday's social media post to Altidore's 197,000 followers, accompanied by a photo of the player waving to the crowd, suggests those talks have finally concluded.

"Thank you Toronto and all the fans for a wonderful seven years," he wrote. "To all the staff and my teammates throughout this time, THANK YOU!! Toronto will always be home. Thank you MLSE and Larry and Judy Tanenbaum for all of your support over the years. See you soon and all the very best in the future."

Larry Tanenbaum is chairman of the board of directors of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which owns the team. Judy is his wife.

TFC is currently in Texas, gearing up for its Feb. 26 season opener at FC Dallas.

Altidore, who married tennis star Sloane Stephens on Jan. 1 in Miami, ranks second in goal-scoring for Toronto with 79 goals in all competitions. Only former strike partner Sebastian Giovinco, with 83, has scored more in TFC colours.

But Altidore managed just six goals over the last two seasons, in